1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH
Born in 1962, the 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH is a 883cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle producing 55hp from Harley-Davidson.
Specifications
Engine
- Type
- OHV V-twin Ironhead
- Displacement
- 883 cc
- Cylinders
- 2
- Power
- 55 hp @ 6800 rpm
- Torque
- 60.0 Nm
- Compression
- —
- Bore × Stroke
- 76.2 × 96.8 mm
- Cooling
- Air-cooled
- Fuel System
- Tillotson carburetor
Chassis & Transmission
- Frame
- Steel double loop
- Front Suspension
- Telescopic fork
- Rear Suspension
- Twin shock
- Front Brake
- Drum
- Rear Brake
- Drum
- Front Tyre
- —
- Rear Tyre
- —
- Transmission
- 4-speed
- Final Drive
- Chain
Performance
- Top Speed
- 170 km/h (106 mph)
- ¼ Mile
- —
Dimensions & Weight
- Dry Weight
- 195 kg (430 lbs)
- Wet Weight
- 215 kg (474 lbs)
- Seat Height
- 750 mm
- Wheelbase
- 1460 mm
- Ground Clearance
- —
- Fuel Capacity
- 13.0 L
History & Story
The 1962 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH was introduced by Harley-Davidson as a standard motorcycle aimed at riders seeking standard motorcycle performance and style. Manufactured in United States, it represented Harley-Davidson's vision for the twin-cylinder standard motorcycle market during the 1960s.
At the heart of the 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH sits a 883cc OHV V-twin Ironhead engine producing 55 horsepower at 6800 rpm. The twin-cylinder powerplant features a twin-cylinder layout with air-cooled cooling, fed by Tillotson carburetor. Power reaches the rear wheel through a 4-speed transmission and chain final drive.
Weighing 195 kg (430 lbs) dry, the 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH uses a steel double loop frame, telescopic fork front suspension, and twin shock rear suspension. The braking system comprises drum front and drum rear units.
Performance-wise, the 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH achieves a claimed top speed of 170 km/h (106 mph). With a fuel capacity of 13.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 750 mm makes it accessible for most riders.
Today, the 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH is considered a desirable collector motorcycle that has appreciated significantly in value over the decades. Parts availability is rated as good, making ownership relatively straightforward. It remains an icon of Harley-Davidson motorcycling from 1960s.
At the heart of the 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH sits a 883cc OHV V-twin Ironhead engine producing 55 horsepower at 6800 rpm. The twin-cylinder powerplant features a twin-cylinder layout with air-cooled cooling, fed by Tillotson carburetor. Power reaches the rear wheel through a 4-speed transmission and chain final drive.
Weighing 195 kg (430 lbs) dry, the 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH uses a steel double loop frame, telescopic fork front suspension, and twin shock rear suspension. The braking system comprises drum front and drum rear units.
Performance-wise, the 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH achieves a claimed top speed of 170 km/h (106 mph). With a fuel capacity of 13.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 750 mm makes it accessible for most riders.
Today, the 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH is considered a desirable collector motorcycle that has appreciated significantly in value over the decades. Parts availability is rated as good, making ownership relatively straightforward. It remains an icon of Harley-Davidson motorcycling from 1960s.
Known Issues
- Oil leaks considered normal on vintage models
- Generator and voltage regulator issues
- Primary chain tensioner adjustment
Fun Facts
- The 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH is considered one of the most collectible motorcycles from Harley-Davidson
- The 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH was produced in Harley-Davidson's United States facilities
- The 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH featured a steel double loop frame typical of 1960s design philosophy
Collector Information
- Parts Availability
- Good
- Collector Rating
- 8/10
Resources & Parts
Find 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH Parts on eBay
Search eBay Motors for parts, accessories and restoration supplies
Haynes Manual for Harley-Davidson
Workshop manuals, service guides and technical references
Insure Your Classic Harley-Davidson
Specialist classic motorcycle insurance from Hagerty
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